First run in 1861 under the banner of the Victorian Turf Club and won by the Etienne de Mestre-trained Archer who beat the favourite Mormon by six lengths. The prize was 1420 pounds and the trophy a gold watch.
Today the crowd and excitement are building at Flemington ahead of the running of the 151st Melbourne Cup. More than 100,000 people are expected at Flemington to watch the great race this afternoon.
And racegoers look likely to win a reprieve from the city's famously fickle weather with Flemington Racetrack to remain under cloud cover throughout Melbourne Cup day.
Weather bureau forecasts that the track would only cop a brief shower at worst and the temperature would reach a maximum of 19C. But hat-wearing racegoers will be relieved that windy weather is not expected.
Eager racegoers arrived at Flemington early, grabbing prime position beside the final straight. Ladies with hats and fascinators are streaming into the course, many carrying Eskies for the long day ahead or already heading to the bar.
Americain is the favourite and will attempt to win back to back Cups.
The Melbourne Cup 2011 Race Time In Each State varies considerably so make sure you check the list below to have yourself ready for the race that stops the nation.
Victorian Melbourne Cup Start Time - 3:00pm
New South Wales Melbourne Cup Start Time - 3:00pm
ACT Melbourne Cup Start Time - 3:00pm
Tasmania Melbourne Cup Start Time - 3:00pm
South Australia Melbourne Cup Start Time - 2:30pm
Queensland Melbourne Cup Start Time - 2pm
Northern Territory Melbourne Cup Start Time - 1:30pm
Western Australia Melbourne Cup Start Time - 12:00pm
Happy Melbourne Cup!
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